Another Milestone: Aboriginal Language Advisory Group Established

20-Apr-2018

Nine representatives from Aboriginal communities across the state will make up the expert panel that will work to preserve and safeguard Aboriginal languages.

Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Sarah Mitchell said the Aboriginal Language Establishment Advisory Group will provide crucial advice on issues relevant to the Aboriginal Languages Act 2017, which is Australia’s first legislation that acknowledges the importance of Aboriginal languages.

“The Advisory Group will make sure Aboriginal voices continue to be respectfully heard. Guided by the principles of trust, choice, collaboration and empowerment, the group will reinvigorate, enhance and empower Aboriginal communities on a local level”, Ms Mitchell said.

“NSW led the way for Australia last year by being the first government to pass legislation that acknowledges the importance of Aboriginal language and its connectivity to culture, heritage and land.

The Aboriginal Language Establishment Advisory Group is made up of a number of impressive individuals with broad knowledge and expertise, so I have no doubt this will be an extremely positive step in ensuring the preservation of Aboriginal language for years to come.”

The nine Aboriginal Languages Establishment Advisory Group members have a wealth of knowledge of different Aboriginal languages, including Dharawal, Gumbaynggirr, Wiradjuri, Bundjalung, Gamilaraay and Thangatti. The group will have ongoing conversations with the community to revive Aboriginal languages and will also work alongside the NSW Government to establish an independent Trust that will coordinate and resource local language activities.